Suspected DUI Driver Hits, & Kills, a Pedestrian in Fremont
Pedestrian Accident, Fremont, CA
26-Year-Old Pedestrian is Killed by a Suspected DUI Driver, who Crashed after Fleeing the Scene, on the 45000 block of Fremont Boulevard
Fremont, CA -A suspected drunk driver struck and killed a pedestrian on Fremont Boulevard in Fremont, California. The tragic incident resulted in the city’s first traffic fatality of the year, prompting an ongoing investigation.
The Incident
On the night of May 3, 2024, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Fremont police received a 911 call regarding a pedestrian accident in the 45000 block of Fremont Boulevard. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Taniela Fanau Hafoka, a 26-year-old Oakland resident, suffering from major injuries. Despite police officers administering CPR and utilizing an automated external defibrillator (AED), Hafoka tragically succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver involved, identified as 58-year-old Hung Vuu of Sunnyvale, fled the initial crash site but collided with a traffic signal pole a quarter of a mile away. He sustained minor injuries in the second collision and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Police believe that alcohol impairment was a contributing factor to the incident.
After receiving medical attention, Vuu was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage causing injury. He remains in custody at Alameda County Jail with a bail set at $150,000.
The crash marked Fremont’s first fatal traffic collision of 2024. The Fremont Police Traffic Unit is actively investigating the case and urges anyone with information to come forward.
Legal Implications
The fatal pedestrian accident on Fremont Boulevard raises significant legal implications. Hung Vuu, the driver involved in the incident, faces charges of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage causing injury. Under California Penal Code Section 191.5(a), gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated can lead to up to 10 years in state prison. Additionally, California Vehicle Code Section 23153(a) defines driving under the influence and causing injury as a felony, which carries hefty fines, license suspension, and substantial prison time.
Statistics emphasize the need for stringent legal action against drunk driving. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 949 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes in 2019, representing 2.4 deaths per 100,000 residents. Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 11,654 deaths related to drunk driving accidents in 2020, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. Additionally, over 30% of DUI offenses are committed by repeat offenders, highlighting the importance of comprehensive legal representation in DUI cases.
For the family of the victim, Taniela Fanau Hafoka, a wrongful death lawsuit could seek compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Personal injury claims may also be pursued by other victims impacted by the DUI collision. Such legal actions hold negligent drivers accountable and provide financial support to grieving families during difficult times.
The tragic death of Taniela Fanau Hafoka in the DUI-related pedestrian accident on Fremont Boulevard illustrates the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Families like Hafoka’s deserve justice and compensation for their loss. Pursuing legal action against negligent drivers can be challenging, but with the guidance of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, families can find a path forward.
A skilled wrongful death lawyer can investigate the incident, establish liability, and navigate California’s complex DUI laws. They can help families file wrongful death lawsuits, seeking compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering. For those directly injured in the collision, a personal injury claim can secure further damages.
With over 50 years of experience helping accident victims and recovering over $1 billion in compensation, Scranton Law Firm is a leader in personal injury law. Our empathetic approach, winning track record, and dedication to justice ensure that your family receives the support it deserves. If your loved one was affected by the incident on Fremont Boulevard or a similar tragedy, contact us today to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Let us fight for the justice and compensation your family needs.
FAQs
1. What charges does the driver face in the Fremont pedestrian accident?
Hung Vuu, the driver involved in the incident, was arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage causing injury. Under California Penal Code Section 191.5(a), gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated can result in up to 10 years in state prison.
2. What compensation can the family of the victim seek in a wrongful death lawsuit?
The family of Taniela Fanau Hafoka, the pedestrian who tragically lost his life in the accident, may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensation could cover medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. A personal injury attorney can guide the family through the process and help secure appropriate damages.
3. How does California law treat DUI offenses resulting in injuries or fatalities?
In California, DUI offenses causing injury or death are treated as felonies under Vehicle Code Section 23153(a). Offenders can face substantial fines, license suspension, and significant prison time. Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, as outlined in Penal Code Section 191.5(a), is punishable by up to 10 years in state prison.
4. What are some of the most common penalties for DUI-related accidents in California?
Penalties for DUI-related accidents vary depending on the severity of the incident. Common penalties include fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, probation, and imprisonment. In cases involving injuries or fatalities, penalties are more severe, often leading to felony charges and long prison sentences.
5. How can a personal injury attorney help families affected by DUI accidents?
A personal injury attorney can help families affected by DUI accidents by investigating the incident, establishing liability, and filing wrongful death or personal injury claims. They navigate complex DUI laws, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for fair compensation covering medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
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Don’t navigate the aftermath of a pedestrian accident alone. Let the Scranton Law Firm stand by your side. With over 50 years of experience as personal injury lawyers, we’ve helped thousands recover from their losses. If you or a loved one are affected by a Fremont pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Secure your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Call us now for a free consultation – The Scranton Law Firm, your trusted ally in these challenging times. Call 800-707-0707 now.
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